In the 2008–09 season, Everton’s midfield spoke Spanish. It was led by a Spaniard and an Ecuadorian—two men who, in a twist of fate, are now trending managers in the football world.

The Beginning of a Friendship in Liverpool

Mikel Arteta and Segundo Castillo were teammates with the Toffees. Today, one manages Arsenal, who are on the verge of eliminating Real Madrid, and the other coaches Barcelona SC of Ecuador, widely known for his stylish suits while managing in the Copa Libertadores.

Segundo Castillo, also known as “Second Castle” on social media, fondly remembers how important Arteta was in helping him adapt to English football.

“When I arrived at Everton, I played in midfield with Arteta, the one now at Arsenal, and we spoke in Spanish because sometimes I didn’t understand English—or just a little,” Castillo said with a laugh on Ecuadorian radio.

“During team talks, I’d sit next to Arteta and he was my translator, telling me ‘look, the boss wants this or that,’” he added, noting they still have a great relationship.

Arteta and Castillo only played together for one season in England, as the Ecuadorian later moved to Wolverhampton in the same Premier League, while Arteta stayed with the Toffees.

Now, Mikel Arteta is on the brink of a major Champions League upset with a three-goal lead over Real Madrid. Meanwhile, Segundo Castillo has led Barcelona SC to second place in Copa Libertadores Group B—and has become a social media sensation for his sharp touchline fashion.

But before their success on the sidelines, they were just two midfielders at Everton—and the Spanish language helped build a lasting friendship.